When Liverpool-based entrepreneur and dad-of-three Dan Ward began exploring franchise opportunities, he drew on his previous experience running a courier franchise to guide his search. He wanted a business model that fit his lifestyle and offered real value to his community.
After carefully weighing his options, Dan chose to launch Kitchen Makeovers (Liverpool South) to help local homeowners transform their kitchens into spaces they truly love.
Learning from experience
Over the last 20+ years, Dan has experienced a varied career across multiple industries, all while raising a family as a married father of three. Originally starting in the oil and gas recruitment sector, Dan climbed the corporate ladder to eventually become the Corporate Director for Europe and UK for an international business leader. Although a career highlight, Dan struggled to drive any meaningful change due to ‘red tape’. Eventually, he was made redundant due to the pandemic six months into the role.
Seizing the opportunity, Dan elected to start a package delivery franchise which he was able to grow into a successful business. With a fleet of 38 vans, Dan and his team delivered parcels across the Chester region. Although business was going well, issues such as vans and packages being stolen became a major problem. As a result, insurance premiums skyrocketed, which prompted Dan to close the franchise.
Dan’s journey then took him back to a corporate nine-to-five office job. The lack of work-life balance and the limited flexibility meant he didn’t have the time he wanted to spend with his wife and grown children. Although he decided to purchase a local cocktail bar during this period, he knew that it wasn’t a long-term option for him.
This prompted him to return to the world of franchising – a path that would eventually lead to Kitchen Makeovers.
Kicking off with Kitchen Makeovers
“I knew a franchise model would suit my lifestyle as it meant that I could set my own hours, allowing me to be a present figure for my family,” said Dan. “After an elimination process of 10 different brands, I narrowed it down to the top three. One being like the franchise I’d launched previously and the other two being completely new industries.
“What made me choose Kitchen Makeovers was the positive conversations I had with the co-owner, Will Franklin, and some existing franchisees. We discussed their journey and whether they’d recommend the brand, which they certainly did. I also had several transferable skills that could help me grow my future business, which would be a big help.
“I could see the potential of starting a franchise with Kitchen Makeovers – from the income to the flexible working hours. Knowing that, I signed on the dotted line and launched my local Kitchen Makeovers in April 2025.”
Kitchen Makeovers has established itself as a leader in a market previously lacking a cost-effective and hassle-free solution. With over 30 franchisees and sophisticated branding, systems and operations, the company has filled a critical gap for homeowners. This commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in nearly 1,000 glowing five-star reviews across reputable online platforms and an impressive average score of 4.9 out of 5 on Trustist. This focus on exceeding expectations is what truly sets Kitchen Makeovers apart from the competition.
Kitchen Makeovers attracts both first-time franchisees and seasoned entrepreneurs looking to move with the times, thanks to an impressive infrastructure designed for scalability and a revitalised approach to customer experience in the home improvement sector. Franchisees are encouraged to fully exploit the success they can achieve within their territories by building a local network of expert tradespeople. Kitchen Makeovers’ approach of championing exceptional customer service is continuing to reap rewards in a sector that has traditionally delivered below-par customer experience. Through recurring income streams, low overheads, an impressive scope for growth and ongoing development, the opportunity for franchisees is huge.
Dan continued: “As part of the onboarding process, I received training from the Kitchen Makeovers team on how to install a kitchen, the suppliers we use and how to handle different situations. However, the support didn’t end as soon as I got on my feet. We have a group chat with all the franchisees where we can ask questions if we need advice or support. Someone always comes back with the answer in a matter of minutes, so you’re never left waiting.
“It’s also great that there’s no competition between the territories – you’re not competing to see who installed the most kitchens or who generated the highest profits. Everyone wants everyone to succeed as it benefits us all.
Big plans for 5-star teams
With the foundation of his business now secure, Dan has big plans on where and how he wants to expand.
“Within the next five years, I hope to grow the business substantially. This includes taking on one or two other territories and growing my area across the county.
“Using the managerial experience I developed during my career in recruitment, I would like to set up each area with a team of six to seven and an operations manager. This strategy will allow me to concentrate on keeping quality consistently high and projects on time – something that’s going to really influence our reputation and bring in referrals from happy customers.”
Dan’s advice when it comes to delving into the world of franchising
“My advice to anyone looking to join a franchise is to ensure you’re disciplined. Entering a new industry and learning a new skill takes time – meaning that you won’t be perfect immediately. You’ll still be learning things well into your career that will have a significant impact on your business and performance – something that people tend to forget.
“Taking that leap into franchising can change your life. It allows you to open your own business while having a ‘how to’ guide as well as the support of others in your industry. I’m so glad I made the decision to return because it allows me to make money but also spend time with my family.
“I have truly found my forever career with Kitchen Makeovers and I couldn’t be happier for it.”